Tottenham Hotspur have joined the race to sign highly rated Portuguese centre-back Tiago Gabriel from Lecce, according to reports Rudi came in.
Gabriel spent his early development years in Portugal, progressing through the youth systems of Sporting CP and Vitória de Setúbal before completing his academy training with Estrela Amadora.
Lecce opted to take a gamble on the defender after selling Federico Baschirotto to Cremonese, a decision that has paid off, with Gabriel emerging as one of Serie A’s most impressive revelations.
After gradually becoming acquainted with Italy’s top flight in his first season, the 6ft 1in centre-back was valued at £13million by Transfer markethas since established himself as a mainstay, appearing in 18 of Lecce’s 19 league matches and regularly turning heads this season with his performances for the I Giallorossi.
According to Rudi came inTottenham have expressed interest in signing Gabriel as a possible option to strengthen Thomas Frank’s backline.
While Spurs are unlikely to make the move for the French-born Portugal U21 international this winter, the report adds that the North Londoners have placed him firmly on their radar and will be closely monitoring his development next summer.
However, it appears other Premier League clubs have carried out an extensive scouting mission for the 21-year-old, as Galetti claims Newcastle United are now keeping a close eye on his progress, while Crystal Palace and Everton have made inquiries about the combative centre-back over a potential transfer.
Spurs are keeping an eye on Gabriel
Tottenham wants to strengthen the selection after a disappointing start to the season. While they sit in 14th place, Spurs will be hoping to find momentum in the second half of the season as they pursue a return to European competition.
Their struggles were highlighted again in the recent Premier League defeat to Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth, a result which marked their 30th league defeat since the start of last season, level with West Ham United and just six shy of bottom-placed Wolverhampton Wanderers.
A key issue for Spurs, especially in defence, has been how absences affect performances and results.
The team often falters when captain Cristian Romero is unavailable, and similar problems arise when Micky van de Ven is forced to the sidelines.
Therefore, adding a promising centre-back like Gabriel, who has the qualities to challenge for a place among the already existing centre-backs, would be an ideal investment for the club next summer.
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